The Advantages & Disadvantages of Two Weeks at a Camp
After carefully watching and nurturing your child for years, the idea of sending him to a two-week camp may feel a bit overwhelming for both you and your child. By considering the advantages and disadvantages of camp, however, many parents are able to reach a decision that keeps their child's best interests at heart.
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Advantage: Nurturing Independence
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While it's rarely visible in camp-aged children, many parents come to find that their sons or daughters have developed an over-dependence on them. Two weeks at camp, in contrast, allow for children to explore their individuality outside of a tight-knit family, an effect which often boosts self-esteem.
Advantage: New Experiences
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While at home, children often fall into similar day-to-day routines. At camp, your child will likely be exposed to new and exciting experiences. It is not uncommon for children to return from camp with a new interest.
Advantage: New Friends and Diversity
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Camps offer team-building exercises to foster involvement and build relationships among children. During his or her two weeks at camp, your child may meet peers of different backgrounds and learn valuable lessons about diversity.
Disadvantage: Separation Anxiety
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Many children experience an initial separation anxiety when removed from home and exposed to new places and people. While levels and duration of anxiety differ, this effect will often only last through a few first nights.
Disadvantage: Concern for Welfare
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As with nearly any experience in your child's life, it can be difficult to hand over responsibility to another adult. Many parents remain concerned over the risks associated with summer camp, from bullying to sexual victimization. Intensive research into camp histories and policies may help reduce these concerns.
Disadvantage: Less Family Time
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Between work, school and other responsibilities, many families spend less time together than they would like. Sending a child to camp means an additional two weeks which won't be spent together.
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